[title]
Covent Garden takes Christmas seriously. Every year, thousands and thousands of people come by the central London spot in the hopes of finding Christmas gifts, so of course it’s got to look the part.
For the festive season, the Piazza, Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard will be illuminated by more than 300,000 LED lights. Alongside them, 40 gigantic golden bells, 8 mirror balls and 12 giants bauble’s will adorn the Market Building and a decked out 50ft Norwegian Spruce will stand proud on the West Piazza.
Winter-inspired drinks will be served from a pop-up bar and surrounding restaurants are offering special festive deals. This year, there’s also going to be brand-new installation ‘The Forest of Theatre’, made of of Christmas trees inspired by West End shows like Mamma Mia, Six, My Neighbour Totoro and Moulin Rouge: The Musical. And every Thursday there’ll be surprise performances from choirs and West End casts.
Want to be in Covent Garden to witness the moment all of that comes to life? Here’s everything you need to know.
RECOMMENDED: The first major London Christmas lights display was turned on last weekend.
Covent Garden Christmas lights switch-on date
The Christmas illuminations in Covent Garden will be turned on in the second week of November, on Thursday November 12. An exact time for the switch-on isn’t confirmed but it’s usually around 6pm. Get down there in ample time so that you have a good view for the moment the button is pushed.
When does Covent Garden’s Christmas market start?
Covent Garden’s festive markets will commence on the same day that the lights come on. As ever, expect stalls selling handmade crafts, artisan gifts and, of course, cups of mulled wine to warm the cockles. They’ll be there until January 2. Find out when all of London’s best Christmas markets open for 2026 here.
When every other major Christmas light display in London will turn on for 2026.
Did you see the 5 best Bonfire Night 2026 fireworks displays in London that are not yet sold out?
Plus: These are the 10 best new London theatre openings in November 2026.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.